West Lothian-based Lomond Books buys GW Publishing

Scottish publisher GW Publishing Ltd has been sold to West Lothian-based publisher, wholesaler and distributor Lomond Books Ltd, for an undisclosed sum.

The terms of the acquisition will see GW's publishing list, rights and stock transfer to Lomond, which intends to continue publishing under the GW Publishing imprint.

Graeme Wallace, owner of GW Publishing, said: “After 16 years, I have taken GW Publishing as far as possible and in order for it to flourish further, and after much consideration and discussion, I have agreed to sell GW Publishing and its publishing list on to a suitable business that I feel can best take it forward."

He added: "For most of its time, GWP titles have been represented, sold and distributed by Lomond Books Ltd which I feel has the strongest presence in the Scottish marketplace. Lomond has over 30 years’ experience in the Scottish and UK book trade and has made great progress in increasing and enhancing the sales and distribution of GWP titles in the last few years.”

Lomond’s commercial director Crawford Goodwin said: “Lomond shall ensure the continued success and supply of the GWP list to our customers. Following many years of selling GWP titles as a wholesaler, and in more recent years handling the sales and distribution for GW Publishing exclusively, it was a natural fit to our business to bring this list under our own publishing arm. With many titles such as Harry The Highlander, The Whisky Kitchen and the Hamish McHaggis series selling exceptionally well across the general book trade, heritage, tourism and gift markets, and with the potential to renew and refresh the publishing list, we welcome the opportunities this acquisition brings to our business.”